(Previously posted at: LollyDaskal.com)
As leader we are sometimes expected to know all the answers—sometimes even before the questions are known. But buying into that expectation means that we risk sacrificing the very thing we need to lead with effectiveness: “The Right Questions!”
That’s why it’s important to resist the clamor for fast answers, any answers, and learn instead to lead with questions.
Some leadership models barely allow for questions. They rely on the idea that intelligence resides at the top, and that leaders don’t ask but tell. The resulting atmosphere makes growth impossible, resulting in stagnant leadership and a workforce that is less smart, less productive, less aligned, less effective, less energized, and less successful.
Leading with questions makes you a better listener. It encourages attentiveness and shared perspectives.
The act of questioning reinforces the idea that everyone is important and that we create success by serving one another. The power of questions can strengthen relationships, develop new business, and influence others.
When you’re making genuine inquiries into a conflict, it fosters a spirit of neutrality. Questions that acknowledge the feelings of others can help you view all sides and prevent conflict.
Questions help you read and understand key aspects of people and relationships. To ask is to show interest. And people want to know they matter.
Good questions energize people, and a questioning culture can energize an entire organization. It helps everyone understand that questions are expected to become a primary mode of communication, emphasizing the thinking and learning over telling. Asking questions shows an inquisitive heart and a open mind.
A leader is as good as their questions. When you ask questions, you will change what you know. When you change what you know, you will have a new understanding. When you have a new understanding, you change your actions—and, ultimately, your leadership.
Lolly Daskal is founder of Lead from Within, a global leadership, executive coaching, and consulting firm based in New York City. With more than 30 years of experience with some of the world’s largest and most successful companies, Lolly is one of today’s most sought-after executive leadership coaches and leadership consultants. Her extensive cross-cultural expertise spans several continents, and most every industry. Lolly has worked with a top-shelf roster of clients, including numerous Fortune 500 companies and organizations of all sizes in a wide range of industries, including biomedical, energy, government, pharmaceuticals, technology, banking, finance, nonprofits, and startup entrepreneurs. Lolly uses a unique, and extremely effective heart-based leadership approach designed to help people achieve their full potential while making a real difference in the world. This philosophy comprises the foundation of her coaching, consulting, and speaking assignments. She combines her extensive personal and professional experience with a deep commitment to helping others—producing truly exceptional and successful outcomes. You can connect with Lolly at: LollyDaskal.com
© 2013 Lolly Daskal. All rights reserved.
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